The stream restoration grants program was created in this year's legislative session in a bill sponsored by Sens. Jeanne Nicholson, D-Black Hawk, and Scott Renfroe, R-Greeley, and Reps. Mike Foote, D-Lafayette, and Jerry Sonnenberg, R-Sterling.

The legislation authorizes payments to local governments, watershed coalitions and nonprofit agencies performing restoration activities as well as some private entities and individuals whose properties were affected by the floods.

"Quickly and strategically rehabilitating streams damaged by the flood is critical for many reasons, most notably so that we are prepared to endure any future surprises Mother Nature might throw in our way," Hickenlooper said in a statement.